Sunday, October 05, 2008

It has been crazy lately! Some of you have asked for the article of Woman of the month for WomanOf.com and so here it is. I was also on the radio for an interview and then I will be putting pictures of the book signing that occurred here at Barns & Nobles on Friday (hopefully this week). I want to do a personal post...but, we are down to one computer and everyone wants on it :P GRRRR! If you want to contact me you can also go onto facebook :) Some of you will be surprised by this article...but, for most of you this is something you have already read. And so it is kinda' redundant :P I want to thank you all for all your support over the years...if it wasn't for you, this book would not be complete! I love you guys! God Bless!Diana Joy

Womanof the Month: Diana Joy

by Tara Becker

When you meet the kind, soft, youthful face of Diana Joy, sister, mother, foster mother, adoptive mother and yes, Grandmother, you would never know the turbulent life she can now call her past.On September 10, 2003, you would think that Diana had everything going for her. She was a successful business women/speaker with a wonderful husband and 8 children. Two of which she was in the process of adopting. But by the next day, her world would be turned upside down with accusations stemming from her diagnosis with Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD). Diana’s world continued to crumble with social services coming into her home and removing the two foster children, which then triggered flashbacks of her own abusive childhood. She did not know where to turn, but to her journals from so long ago. Advice given from her older sister, to write, will make the monsters and the bad dreams go away. While reading and reliving these memories gave way to the first recollection of Peter. This was just one of her personalities.This author claims to be no expert in MPD, but what I can tell you and as explained to me by Diana Joy herself is that these personalities saved her life. Each personality would take over to protect her and try to keep her from harm whenever an abusive situation would occur. But what is most powerful is that she is working through her own pain and healing right in front of your eyes on the pages of her recently published book, Looking Through The Eyes Of An Unseen Child.While she shares with us about her horrible treatment as a young child at home and then in the facility where she spent 3-years “recovering” from MPD, she shows us that none of us need to be ashamed. Looking is Diana’s way of introducing the world to what they don’t or refuse to see. And, that people can change. Multiple personalities is how she coped with the terrible things that happened to her starting at a very early age. It was just her way of coping. A different way of coping. It was one of the six ways that she and her siblings coped. She was one of six.She has since stripped off her mask and now when she proudly steps into the stage of life, she no longer needs to feel ashamed for there is no shame. Not only does she share with us these personal moments of her life, but is dedicated to teaching every “unseen” child (and adult) that they don’t have to be fearful of removing their masks. She does this with the formation of the Unseen Child Foundation. The Unseen Child Foundation is to provide safe havens for children and young adults. She spearheads this movement by personally going out into the community, juvenile detention centers, prisons, the streets to speak and inform. The Foundation will be conducting its first fundraiser a black-tie affair on Friday, November 7th at 6:00pm at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Denver.Stayed tuned as you may be seeing this story on the big screen. As, Diana is currently discussing film options with Hollywood. She’s adamant about society hearing from the people that cannot (or will not) speak. It’s a story that needs to be told, but they need to get it right.Excerpt from Looking Through The Eyes Of An Unseen Child:To my oldest daughter…You will never know how much you have helped me come to this point in my life. It is not a birth certificate that made you our daughter, but your big blue eyes and your small smile as you wandered through our apartment building on many late nights years ago. You were only eight when you would be found peeking through our window and knocking at our door. You would always ask the same question, “Can I baby-sit?” At first, I giggled at the thought of such a young girl wanting to care for a boy almost her own age. I wish I would have listened to my heart, and looked in your eyes at that time. Why didn’t I question how such a small child was allowed to wander through the apartments alone…You never used words, then, to explain how much you were hurting. It was a few years later, when you were eleven, that you finally found the courage to tell us of the abuse you were suffering. But, because I had not yet accepted my own past, I denied the truth that you were attempting to share with me. It was my own fear that pushed you to become a runner and live with a shame that wasn’t yours.My dear daughter, it was the phone call you made at thirteen, from the institution for difficult juveniles, that changed my life. When I saw you, again, your pain mirrored my own, and guilt consumed me at having failed you, just as others had failed me. I decided then that I would use adoption and foster care as my way of helping you and other children to be seen. Still though, it wasn’t until you had children of your own, that I saw your trust in me return to your eyes. You are still my silent child who chooses not to speak of your shame, and so I will now speak for you… It is not your secrets I will reveal, but mine. Thank you for teaching me the greatest lesson of all – because you forgave me, I can find forgiveness for others.Diana’story reminds us that no one should have to live with the shame of who they are.

Saturday, September 20, 2008

I just wanted to say "Hi" to all my group members and remind them to spread the news that the book is out and can be purchased at any local book store! If you go to the book store (Barns & Nobles, Borders, etc) and they don't have it on the shelf...PLEASE HAVE THEM ORDER IT?! I am going to be filmed on Monday and so the mini-video will be on my site www.unseenchild.com soon. You will have the opportunity to see what I do and why I continue to go to the streets to help these children. Last weekend Crystal and I were down town and we came across a teenager without any shoes....When I asked,"Where are your shoes?" She responded, "Someone took them while I was sleeping". I immediately reminded her of the safe house across the street and she then began to tell me that the safe house is where someone took her shoes while she was sleeping.... Then she told me that she was going to sleep under the bridge that night "It is much safer there" she said. Anger builds inside me every time I hear the neglect we as a society have towards these children. I need to remind you to PLEASE look into these children's eyes!!!

Years ago I had this child (of 14) stay in my house and one late night she left this letter under my door and was gone before I awoke....

Dear Diana,

I'm sorry I was not truthful with you. I can't explain my reasons why I do the things I do. It has nothing to do with you or anybody I know. I'm putting everyone here at risk. I just feel like I need to run. My mom turned her back on me when I needed her most. I know there are people here for me in life, but not the one main person I need most. You have been so great to me. God knows where I would be without you. You have been nothing but good to me and I just keep fucking up. I will understand if you need to kick me out. Cause I can't stop having sex. It makes me feel wanted, I know that sounds dumb cause of the people I choose to have sex with. But it is true. I can't save myself from it. It's not what I want (but it's what every guy in my life wants). I'm scared to loose anybody. I want to be happy so bad! I wish I could take back everything that has happened to me, but I can't! I just learn to forget! Forgive! I wanted to say I'm sorry and you have helped me. You have made a big difference in my life. Please don't think you didn't help me? You can only do so much. Don't get discouraged. I love you with all my heart! Sorry, I have to get out!!!!

Luv yah

Always!

Me

Life is not always pretty and the words are not ones we want to hear from a child. But, sometimes no matter how hard we try some of these kids would rather sleep on a park bench downtown (or under a bridge) than get close to someone. Because if they get close and actually love someone....that person could hurt them.....So, I believe that instead of locking these kids up and punishing these kids for running away...we need to give them a safe house that they can run to. I received this letter years ago...it opened my eyes to what it is like to look through a child's eyes who has been hurt so bad that being used as a prostitute is safer than living with a family.... I want to let you all know that we are having a fundraiser Oct. 3rd. All of the money will go the Unseen Child Foundation. This Foundation is for the kids on the streets, in the prisons, and to build new shelters...SAFER SHELTERS!! We have not met our goal yet and are asking for sponsors, donations or just anyone who can purchase books so that I can hand them to these kids. We need to give these children hope in life!!! I know my posts are long...but, there is just not enough words to tell you how much I care for these kids and how much they need help!!! You can go to my site www.unseenchild.com and make a donation and I will make sure you receive a receipt and a tax id number. Thanks so much for joining this cause!!!

Saturday, August 30, 2008

Dearest Diana,......so much is going on within me right now after finishing your book. I am running the gamut of emotions from anger to optimism, from a hallowed ache in my middle to elation that you have transcended. Everything is swirling around right now because I feel as if I were there with you at the motel and in the woods, in the car, to getting the candy bar. Your book is so intimate that you can't help but find yourself in it. It is truly a remarkable piece that needs to be heard. I am extremely blessed to have you enter my life by a stroke of divine intervention. There are no mistakes, and I thank you for giving me the honor to take part in your world. I have to read it again...just because! I am so proud of you that you have the strength to share your story so that others can be seen, and know that they are not alone. Like I said the other night you have been blessed with the knowledge that you are bigger than the obstacles that were put in your path.

As far as what I feel this can become in terms of a visual medium, my gut is telling me a film. A raw account of your story that can have a life visually to also help and inspire the world around us. It can and should be done. I feel such a connection to the piece, and will help you in any way possible to get this seen. LOOKING THROGH THE EYES OF AN UNSEEN CHILD is a film.

The work you do today, aside from the book, I feel would be a great documentary raising awareness of the abuse that causes so many to feel unseen, and without voice. They could be a phenomenal 2,3, after the astounding piece that is your book.Well my new friend, I think of you tonight, and send you my thoughts and prayers. You make this world a better place, please know this! I will talk to you tomorrow.Love,James PatricNYC

Please continue to pray that this project is not about success, but the Unseen Children!!! James Patric doesn't speak about success. I truly see his compassion for the Unseen Children! Pray! Pray! For the right company and for the book to get into the hands of the children & adults who need the words to know that they are not the only unseen. Also, pray that this project is protected by the ones who are committed to the children!!!*hugs*Diana Joy

Saturday, August 23, 2008

I have received so many e-mails questioning if the information is really true....and..YES! My book is finished! Here is what it looks like! I appreciate everybody who is waiting on a book and also those who have ordered more than one...(I know what it is like to tell someone you have bought them something and then wonder yourself if it is ever going to come.)....I realize that for some the waiting has been VERY frustrating... All I can say is, "I love you all for your patience! It is greatly appreciated!!"....even though my patience has been running very thin through this entire process :pI never imagined how long it would take to print and publish a book until now!!!! I truly believed once a book was written and submitted to a publisher, it would just be a matter of weeks (not many months) before I had it in my hands.....Hopefully the next book will go much more smoothly :) So...the answer to the other e-mails (regarding my last post) is YES again...I have interviewed with 2 television stations.....The idea of making my book into a movie has been discussed with the different production companies...I promise I will keep you up to date if any decisions are made :) It is not something I had every imagined...but, now after talking with some new friends, production company's and my team, I can see how valuable it can to have my book on the screen for people to understand what it is like to look through the eyes of an unseen child. I am so glad now I have a wonderful Agent and team of committed people that will help keep me grounded and focused. Please continue to pray for us as we move forward with any & all business decision....Well, speaking of team...I have a meeting and need to be there in about 15 minutes :o)Love you all!Diana Joy

I have been listening to my music while I have been writing and one of my favorite songs came on....so I just HAVE to play the video!

Hi Everyone!I found this video and just had to put this on my blog!I have a ton to tell you..but, unfortunately we are down to one computer and everyone is fighting over this one! grrrrr!Check this video out!

Friday, August 15, 2008

I'm back!!! I had a wonderful time in New York City!My mother-in-law is recovering wonderfully from her heart surgery. God gave me an opportunity to sit with her and catch up on the years we have been apart:) And for that I am very thankful!!!

Also, I cannot tell you how great it was to meet so many new people!!!On Friday (the day after I arrived) I met Aidah. She took me on a tour of HBO Studio's and introduced me to such nice people. Then we talked for hours over a wonderful lunch :p I was so happy when she said she wanted me to come back the following Wednesday!!! We had so much fun! HBO is lucky to have such a special person working for them and I am blessed to have her as my friend :) Thanks Aidah for everything!

I want to say thanks to L. Renée Mitchell for taking me out to eat too :P mmmm! Okay..I hope you all get the picture here...the food in New York City is yummy!!!lolRenée is the Assistant Vice President at The Dreyfus Corporation located in Grand Central Station. She is such a sweet person. Within the first few minutes of meeting her I could see such compassion in her eyes. As she spoke I could also hear her strong faith in God! We had so much fun talking. And let me tell you...that girl can laugh! lol I'm sure we sounded like two young school girls laughing in the cafe that afternoon! lol I look forward to getting together again soon!

I wanted to let you all know that a lot of the people I met in New York City are members of NAFE (National Association for Female Executives). Ladies! If you don't belong to NAFE...YOU HAVE TO! It is a great way to network and be seen :)

I also want to let you know that I can't even count how many times I got lost :o)The subway is sooooo confusing. I must say though that I loved it when people came on the train to sing. I don't have any actual pictures or video's of them...but, someone sent me this video. This will give you an idea of how life is in NYC...

I hope you enjoyed the video :)))Until the next post...((BIG HUGS))Diana Joy

Saturday, July 19, 2008

Okay guys....I've received so many e-mails inviting me to speak about the book! I am soooo excited that I can hardly sit still! The book comes out in just 2 weeks!!!! And this seems to be the longest 2 weeks of my life :p I can't wait until those who have ordered my book have it in there hands!!! I feel like I could stand on a mountain and yell to a nation that there is hope and healing through the words written throughout these pages! Tears come to my eyes as I realize it is finished and I have nothing to be ashamed of!! I will now not only stand up and speak for me, but for all the children and adults who are victims of abuse!!! As I write, I see all the faces of the children who are waiting for you all to read the words that they have kept hidden in their hearts. Please don't think that if you buy this book it is for just me....it is for all the children who have been unseen for so long...sitting in the shadows of life....waiting for someone to see them! I am asking you to order a book...if not for yourself...buy it for a loved one or a friend....As I sat talking to my brother last night I realized that from this time forward we will no longer live as strangers...but, now (after over 30 years) we will live as brother and sister! If this book brought us together after all these years, imagine what it can do for so many more lost and broken families!!!My younger brother, Sara and I are already getting prepared for the next year. We have a very busy 6 months ahead of us. We have meetings this week and next with organizations and sponsors. Then the speaking begins and book signings. To slow things down a bit my family and I leave for New York City August 7th through the 14th. I can't wait to see my in laws!!! They live in Queens. While I am there I will be meeting with some women from NAFE. NAFE stands for National Association For Female Executives. It is an awesome organization and a honor to be asked to speak with some of the women who make NAFE so successful. Go to their site: http://www.nafe.com/ This is a great way to network ladies!!Also, while I am in NYC I have been given the invitation to tour HBO studio's. I have always wondered how HBO works....I guess I will find out in just a few weeks. I look forward to getting to know the nice woman who invited me :) Thanks Aidah! She contacted me through the program "Linkin". She has worked with HBO for 10 years and from our phone conversation and e-mails she has a heart full of compassion for the unseen children.Last week my brother, Sara and I met with the wonderful women from "WomenOf.com." I gave the Marketing Director the book after the meeting and she called me a couple of days later letting me know how much it has changed her life. Also, she said, "We definitely need to buy stock in Kleenex!" lol Be sure and check out their site: http://womenof.com/ Especially this fall because I will be the woman of the month :o) This fall I will be flying to LA for a television (& radio) interview by "An Empowered Woman, Inc."I look forward to traveling to the west coast and walking along the beach :))) God is an awesome God! It seems like my world is opening up for the first time in so many years! Please go to http://www.anempoweredwoman.com/ and hear the stories from some of the women who have over come some amazing obstacle's and have become successful.Okay...My younger brother wanted me to tell you that I have been asked to speak on the Carnival Cruise Feb. 12th for four nights and five days. The Cruise is to Mexico. I was invited by the Women's Business Link Check out their site: http://www.womensbusinesslink.org/wbl/ Husbands and significant others are also invited..... I was going to wait until I had an itinerary put on my site...but, I couldn't wait! I am counting the days until we go because this will be the first time my husband and I have had alone time together (without kids) in over twenty years! I think it is awesome that it will be Valentines week!!!My kids want to watch a movie, so it is time to say goodbye :)Thank you all for your prayers and always standing by my side through the toughest of times. So many of you have never even met me in person....but, some where deep inside I know that it won't be long before we see each other face to face :))) I will be scheduling book signings soon!!!God bless!Diana JoyBTWPlease copy and paste the banner below and put it on your blog:)))*hugs*DJ

Monday, July 14, 2008

Hi Everyone!It has been so crazy here this summer! I have met so many people and have had the opportunity to share my story with them! I am already being scheduled for speaking. I am also scheduled to be interviewed (both tv & radio) in LA & NYC. I will also be speaking on a cruise on Feb. 12th 2008! My husband was so happy to hear that he could travel with me on a cruise! It will be our first vacation together alone in 15 years!I caught up with Susie McEntireLuchsinger 2 weeks ago in Brush Colorado. It was a couple of hours before her concert. After all the e-mails over the last 2 years it was nice to finally sit and chat with her. Her new songs are so inspiring that I can't wait for her new cd!!! Once again people, go to her site www.susieluchsinger.com. Speaking of my little brother....I don't think I had a chance to tell you all he is here in Denver and is wanting to get involved in raising money for safe houses for children. We finally are together after 30 years!!!! I was so afraid to meet him for the first time. All I kept thinking was, "Does he still have blond hair? Oh God! Please don't let me cry! Lord help me recognize my baby brother and not make a fool out of myself by running up to some random person!" It was 1:00 am when we finally found each other and yes! I cried like a baby as he held me!!! I couldn't believe my once baby brother was much taller than me!!! I know the next question you are all wondering is, "Has he read the book?" He has read the book and is ready to hit the road to market it. I leave for NYC on August 8, and from there I will be going to LA to do a Television/Radio interview on November 14th-16th! God is so good! I have been sick and have had no time to set up appointments and God is making sure that I know He is right by my side guiding me each step of the way. Each time I speak, I feel Him standing beside me! I am surprised with the response people are having....including my own family! I no longer feel like I am all alone telling my story....when I go to write or answer the e-mails it is so reassuring to know that my younger brother is not afraid to stand with me and speak so that unseen children will be seen. I have been trying to upload a picture of my younger brother, but, blogger is not working. I will try again soon :)God bless,*hugs*Diana Joy

Thursday, June 05, 2008

Here is the new banner for my book! I want to thank my dear friend Wendy Barr for making the banner :)))) I love you Wendy!!!! I should have the banner codes in the next day or two. Then feel free to copy and paste people!!! hehehehe!I also want to let you all know that I am now addicted to this site called "Linkedin" http://www.linkedin.com/home I have met so many incredible people on this site! You have to check it out!!!Also, Sara and I are working day and night promoting this book. It may seem as if I am complaining ......but it is exactly the opposite! It doesn't feel like work! I absolutely love meeting new people and hearing their stories. Just when I think, "That has to be the most amazing story of survival!" Some one else will come up to me and knock me off my feet with yet another testimony of courage and endurance! I am so excited at how many men and women are choosing to join together and support one another to begin the healing process!Sara and I had the chance to speak at the Christian Writers Conference in Estes Park, Colorado this spring. It was so powerful! Thank you so much Marlene for the opportunity. Please go to http://www.writehisanswer.com/ and read of all the wonderful work Marlene is doing!!!My prayer is that as this book hits the stores all of the people who contributed their art, poetry, and journals will realize that they no longer have to live in the past....They too can grow and enjoy life.My only frustration from this week is that there is not enough time in the day to get back to everyone. I can't wait until this weekend! I will have a chance on Saturday night to sit quietly and answer your e-mails :) So keep them coming!!!!God bless you all!*hugs*Diana JoyBTWI hope to post pictures of my son Josiah & his wife Abby's wedding as soon as I get my hands on them! hehehe!

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Hi Everyone! I am so sorry I have been so busy :P I want you to all know that you are always in my thoughts, even when I don't have a chance to blog. Also, I want to let 4whatit's worth that I am praying for her every day! Go to my links and see what a amazing woman she is! There is another woman who is going through alot and I would love it if you would check out her site "susieluchsinger.com" She has had so much happen to her over the last year and she could use your love and support. Especially now....her divorce is final and we all know how painful and complicated things can be going through divorce. Susie Luchsinger is a woman with such a big heart. Please drop her a note or ask what you can do for her....she has always been there for me....be there for Susie today!I need to go and get some posters up (to advertise my book) It has been crazy! I have had so many opportunities to speak and have enjoyed getting to know people from around the US!Here is a letter that Janey DeMeo (from Orphans First) sent me....I loved it!JUST A MOM?A woman, renewing her driver's license at the County Clerk 's office,was asked by the woman recorder to state her occupation.She hesitated, uncertain how to classify herself. 'What I mean is,' explained the recorder, 'do you have a job or are you just a ?''Of course I have a job,' snapped the woman.' I'm a Mom.''We don't list 'Mom' as an occupation,'housewife' covers it,'Said the recorder emphatically.I forgot all about her story until one day I found myself in the same situation, this time at our own Town Hall. The Clerk was obviously a career woman, poised, efficient, and possessed of a high sounding title like,'Official Interrogator' or 'Town Registrar.'' What is your occupation?' she probed. What made me say it? I do not know. The words simply popped out. 'I'm a Research Associate in the field ofChild Development and Human Relations.' The clerk paused, ball-point pen frozen in midair andlooked up as though she had not heard right. I repeated the title slowly emphasizing the most significant words. Then I stared with wonder as my pronouncement was written, in bold, black ink on the official questionnaire. 'Might I ask,' said the clerk with new interest,'just what you do in your field?' Coolly, without any trace of fluster in my voice, I heard myself reply,' I have a continuing program of research,(what mother doesn't) In the laboratory and in the field, (normally I would have said indoors and out). I'm working for my Masters, (first the Lord and then the whole family) and already have four credits (all daughters). Of course, the job is one of the most demanding in the humanities,(any mother care to disagree?) and I often work 14 hours a day, (24 is more like it). But the job is more challenging than most run-of-the-mill careersand the rewards are more of a satisfaction rather than just money.' There was an increasing note of respect in the clerk's voice as shecompleted the form, stood up, and personally ushered me to the door. As I drove into our driveway, buoyed up by my glamorous new career, I was greeted by my lab assistants -- ages 13, 7, and 3. Upstairs I could hear our new experimental model, (a 6 month old baby) in the child development program, testing out a new vocal pattern. I felt I had scored a beat on bureaucracy! And I had gone on the official records as someone moredistinguished and indispensable to mankind than 'just another Mom.' Motherhood! What a glorious career! Especially when there's a title on the door.Does this make grandmothers 'Senior Research associates in the field of Child Development and Human Relations' And great grandmothers'Executive Senior Research Associates?' I think so!!! I also think it makes Aunts 'Associate Research Assistants.'Please send this to another Mom,Grandmother, Aunt, And other friends you know. May your troubles be less, Your blessings be more, And nothing but happiness come through your door! AMEN!!God bless you all!Diana Joy

Thursday, May 01, 2008

Looking through the Eyes of an Unseen Child (by Diana Joy) is FINALLY FINISHED! It's in the hands of the publisher!!!!Thank you SO MUCH for all your support over the last five years – your emails, phone calls, prayers, and love is what has kept me, Sara, Jenny, and the rest of the team going! Thank you for being a part of this project, without you this book would not be touching so many hearts all over the world!Remember, it only takes the love of one person to help a child be seen!

Press the button on the left side of this blog please!!???Love you all!Diana Joy

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

The first time I saw this I must admit I cried.....Thanks Susie for your big heart!I wanted to go to each of my family members and tell them I love them and shout out that I have always loved them!!!....Please continue to pray that the book I wrote does just that...it speaks to each of my siblings...and my mother...Just think! Now that my book is being published it won't be long and a family will be seen...a mother will be forgiven...and six siblings will be seen in a way that a person has no choice but to hold their hand throughout the pages and see who they really are! Also, the childrens art, poetry, and journals (the 2nd part of the book) will be seen too!!!!!Thanks for reminding us Susie that..."Sometimes we forget to tell the ones who are closest to us that we love them and that we also need to reach out to those people who have no love in their life..Also, Don't forget the most important words Susie said at the end of the video, "At the end of the day we should give thanks and pray to the One the only One"Thanks God!*hugs* to all of you!I have sooooo much to say...and such little time :o)God bless!Diana Joy

Friday, April 18, 2008

I was on my way to work and heard this story! I had to share it with you all!!!I will be doing my own video hopefully soon. I now have a wonderful boss at Edward Jones and we have A TON of work to do to open this office back up!!! Be sure and purchase your book on my site www.unseenchild.com! It comes out this summer!!!! *hugs*God bless you all!Diana Joy

Friday, April 11, 2008

Hi everyone! My dear friend Janey called the other day. She always knows when something is not quite right...especially if I don't call her or write within a week or two. Thank you Janey for always being there :) When she called it reminded me that I haven't showed you all her book! It is a great book! You can find more about it at http://janey-demeo.blogspot.com/. Heaven Help Me Raise These Children. Also, I wanted to say thanks to all of you and I am so sorry I haven't posted like I have promised! Once again I came down with something yucky:P The poor doctors at Boulder Medical Urgent Care! All I have to say is "Thanks for putting up with me for four days!" I am feeling much better now :) My lipids levels(from my blood) are still high...but they are lower than they were:) Please pray for me as I see another blood specialist in May. Also....the word is out....YES! I had another heart surgery March 23.....once again another stint :(..so now I have 5 stints...I am okay now and trying to take it easy. As I looked at the last video...my face still looks a little pale...and my hair looks horrible! lolI think it's because of the medicine they gave me before they knocked me out! My friend Diane Maes said when they put you under (for surgery) the chemicals mess with your hair....obviously it did mine!!! hahahahaSara and I hope to be doing another post this week!!!! Good news!!!! The link is up to order my book!!!! Be sure and go to my site www.unseenchild.com and go to my store! My book is Looking Through the Eyes of an Unseen Child. You can buy Janey's book there too ;) Also, there are some other great writers and of course Susie McEntire Luchsingers CD's!!!-www.susieluchsinger.comGod bless you guys and stay tuned!Love,Diana Joy

Sunday, March 30, 2008

Monday, March 10, 2008

My sister in-law sent this to me last night after I had been working all weekend on the book. I loved it! Awesome!! We complain about the cross we bear but don't realize it is preparing us for the dip in the road that God can see and we can't.Whatever your cross, whatever your pain,there will always be sunshine, after the rain.... Perhaps you may stumble, perhaps even fall; But God's always ready, to answer your call...He knows every heartache, sees every tear, a word from His lips, can calm every fear...Your sorrows may linger, throughout the night, But suddenly vanish, dawn's early light... The Savior is waiting, somewhere above,to give you His grace, and send you His love...God promises a safe landing, not a calm passage.God bless!Have a wonderful week!Diana Joy

Tuesday, March 04, 2008

Hi Everyone!A blogger named "Cat" left me a comment yesterday and I went to find her and realized she was a young girl of 15. Here is her link: http://greeneggsandham-cat.blogspot.com/ It is one of the most powerful blogs I have read! I have a few child bloggers that I visit...but, I just never have time to comment. When you have a chance stop by and check her blog out :)....maybe even leave a comment:)God bless,Diana Joy

Monday, February 25, 2008

Hi Everyone!I apologize for not getting back to you all sooner. I wanted to blog... But, I'm not gonna lie...It's been a tough few weeks....I am doing much better now. My spirits are high and I am now working like crazy on the book! Sara and I hope to hand it to Advantage Publishers by Monday!!!! PRAISE GOD!!! There is a light at the end of the tunnel!!! :o) PLEASE KEEP PRAYING FOR THIS BOOK! I was talking to my husband the other day and as we were discussing the details of the book, I found myself saying, "All I know is that God has asked me to share my life for that one person out there waiting to hear about how God can heal! And I can't wait to say to God...IT IS FINISHED!!!" There are no words powerful enough to explain how much joy I feel the closer I get to the conclusion of the book!!!! No matter what the Doctors say about my body....I feel like I am healing from deep within my soul!!!I don't want to ignore the fact that some of you have come to my blog daily and sent e-mails asking if I am ok and what is wrong. So to not address it is wrong. Over the last month a song has been repeating in my mind. Those words sure apply to my life now...The words are "What do you say in a moment like this? When you can't find the words to tell it like it is. Just close your eyes and let your heart lead the wayOh what do you say...So, I guess I will just let my heart lead the way.....The Doctors told me that I have Lipoprotien-a and Cerebral cavernous malformations. I am not sure what all of this means? Please be patient with me? I have had so many Doctors throwing so much information at me that my husband and I have taken a break and decided to give it to God. I will show you one the pictures the Doctors have shown me. And give you a general definition of the illness...By-the-way the surgeon put the red on the MRI to point out where the bleeding is beginning. I have to giggle because at first I thought the MRI was now in color! lol The hole is a "Cerebral cavernous malformation".Here is the upper right part of my brain....One of my kids said, "Mom, it's okay...we always knew you had a few holes in your head". lol I don't want to make light of it...but, sometimes that is the only way I can get through all of this :)

The dark cavity is where I have bleeding....I have two more at the bottom of my brain. One on the right and one on the left. It looks like I will be going back in for brain surgery....but the doctors said I have to get stable from heart surgery....Only God knows what could happen between now and then :) God can heal!!! I want you all to know that my head does not hurt at all and I am feeling much better. Lipoprotien-a is when the lipid levels in your blood are too high and it can cause clotting. The highest it can go is 30...well my levels are over 200! This means that my blood is clotting in places (like my heart) and bleeding in places (like my brain). Right now I would appreciate a lot of prayers :) But, for now life is back to the usual...I am back at work (Edward Jones) and working on the book (of course). I also want to say thanks to all those wonderful people who work for Edward Jones :) Their positive attitude and support has been more than I could ask for. Well....I need to get going....Dave turns 45 tomorrow and he wants to go out as a family. I need to get on the phone and make sure everybody doesn't forget!Diane your wonderful for keeping everybody up to date :) Thanks!!!!! (BIG HUG))God bless you all!*hugs*Diana Joy

Tuesday, January 08, 2008

Hello all, I want to let everyone know that Diana Joy has been so very ill many new issues have arrived. Her pain has been great for some time now and more problems have occurred within her brain. Also she has developed shingles due to the breaking down of her physical fight, causing more problems. She has some great doctors treating her now and hopefully they will find answers to so many questions. Although she is going through so much right now she still finds the might and will to smile and laugh. Her bravery is astounding and truly wonderful. May God bless her and keep her strong to overcome the fight she has been going through with her health and heal her with victory restoring her from her bed of illness. 1 Peter 4:12,13Dear friends, do not be surprise at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you but rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. All my love and prayersDiane Maes